The Montreal Canadiens open the NHL regular season on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, against the Toronto Maple Leafs at Scotiabank Arena, with puck drop set for 7 p.m. ET. In Canada, the game will be shown on Sportsnet and TVA Sports.
A rivalry game with fresh pressure on both sides
This meeting brings together two teams that know each other well, but the stakes feel different this time. Montreal is arriving after a run to the third round of the 2026 playoffs, while Toronto is trying to reset after missing the postseason, changing coaches, and adding new pieces.
That contrast gives the opener extra weight. The Canadiens want to prove last season was a launch point rather than a peak, and the Maple Leafs want an immediate sign that their revamped roster can function quickly under pressure.
Why this opener stands out
Montreal and Toronto are facing off to begin the season for the seventh straight year, which keeps the rivalry front and center on opening night. The Canadiens can lean on proven offense, with captain Nick Suzuki coming off a 101-point season and Cole Caufield finishing with 50 goals.
Toronto still has elite scoring talent of its own, especially Auston Matthews and William Nylander, but the biggest storyline is how the new structure comes together. With a short camp and a new coach in Jim Hiller, the Maple Leafs are still building chemistry while trying to win immediately.
The rookie everyone will be watching
Gavin McKenna is the most compelling name in the building. The 18-year-old first overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft is expected to make his regular-season debut in one of the league’s most intense Canadian matchups.
Toronto has projected him on a line with John Tavares and Nylander, though those combinations could still change before the game starts. If McKenna gets quality touches early and shows he can create space at NHL speed, Toronto’s night becomes a lot more dangerous for Montreal.
The best scoring bet
Cole Caufield looks like the safest goal pick in this matchup. He already proved he can finish at an elite level last season, and he added two more goals in a September 21 preseason win over Ottawa, including the overtime winner.
Matthews is Toronto’s most obvious threat if the Leafs spend long stretches in the offensive zone. Still, Montreal’s defense has to pay the closest attention to Caufield, because his release can change a game in a hurry.
What should decide the result
The first team to find rhythm may end up controlling the night. Toronto has home ice and more than enough firepower, but its new lineup needs time to settle into a natural flow. Montreal can make that process uncomfortable by capitalizing on early chances.
The opening period should reveal a lot. If the Leafs connect quickly, McKenna’s debut could become the headline moment of a memorable home opener. If the Canadiens strike first, Caufield has the finishing ability to make Toronto chase the game.
Final call: McKenna is the most interesting player in the spotlight, but Caufield is the best choice to score. The winner may not be clear until the lineups and starting goaltenders are confirmed.